The Wisdom I’d Share with Teenage Me (Part 1)
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I recently pulled out my high school diaries and took a stroll down memory lane. I wanted to dope-slap myself for some of my silliness (why was I so excited about a new pair of corduroy pants?) and awkwardness (some day I’ll tell you about the time I slipped on a square of Jello in front of a cute guy!)
But mostly, I felt compassion for teenage me. Oh, how I wish I could go back and tell her a few things!
For starters, I’d say…
September 23
Dear Diary:
PRAISE BE!!! On Wednesday, we had an Algebra test, and on Thursday I saw the most wonderful number and word: ‘100% EXCELLENT!’ I was overwhelmed with happiness and satisfaction!
C
To Teenage Me:
You certainly got Nana’s mind for math. But remember Who gave this gift to both of you! By all means, push yourself to learn and grow, but never anchor your happiness and satisfaction on numbers or words. Both will fluxuate. God’s love for you is unwavering.
Your Future Self
November 11
Dear Diary:
Mother’s been very tense lately. She’s doing bio-feedback to learn how to relax. I’ve done my best to help out! I don’t know why she’s so anxious.
C
To Teenage Me:
Continue to honor your mother. But realize these two things:
- What she’s going through is not your fault.
- You can’t fix her.
The best thing on earth that you can do for her is to lift her up to the throne of heaven in prayer.
Your Future Self
January 1
Dear Diary:
I’m feeling a bit chubby tonight, so I’ll be lean on eating tomorrow. On Saturday I was down to ### pounds, but I also pigged out Saturday night and Sunday, and today I had an ice cream bar!
C
To Teenage Me:
Oh, how I’d love to convince you to throw out the scale, get rid of all mirrors, and quit watching so-called “beauty” pageants. When you learn to turn to God for strength, you will stop substituting diets for deliverance and food for comfort.
Your Future Self
February 14
Dear Diary:
I know this sounds awfully egotistical and selfish, but I just wish someone would satisfy this female longing to feel “special” to someone….just to know that he felt I was important enough to pay heed to…
C
To Teenage Me:
After a quarter-of-a-century of marriage, I’ll tell you this: there is no man on earth who can satisfy your female longing. This isn’t a statement about men; it’s a fact about the power of your desire to feel “special” to someone. This need is neither egotistical nor selfish, although the ways you go about trying to fulfill it always are. Want to find your soulmate? Reach for the One who loves you and pays heed to you every moment of every day…and always will.
Your Future Self
Your Turn
What would you tell your “Teenage Me”?
